When 48-year-old Heidi Guido saw the news cameras outside the Ambridge police station Monday, she wished to turn back around. But as officers walked her out with handcuffs as she kept her head down, police say she needs to face the serious charges against her.

"I told her this is the day she needs to be honest with herself, because she's put her daughter in danger," said officer Zadock Dismuke.

Guido lives on Duss Avenue where police say she left her 5-year-old daughter sleeping home alone. Officers say her daughter awoke about an hour and a half later, scared, and dialed 911 for help.

"She's a beautiful 5-year-old little girl. It broke my heart to walk in and see her in the apartment by herself," said Dismuke.

Guido's neighbors reacted as well.

"I would never leave my daughter alone. I can barely leave her alone when I go to the bathroom," said neighbor Ruth Mattison.

Guido told police she came to the 8th Street CVS Pharmacy to drop off her prescription. Police said it didn't take long for her to admit the other reason she left the house.

After police used Guido's family members to call her and track her down at the CVS, police say they took her in for questioning and that she ultimately gave this statement, in part: "I walked to the 11th Street park, talked to my friend, then texted someone to see if they had any crack cocaine."

While the mother's admitted actions are troubling, police say it's fortunate the 5-year-old was quick to dial 911, and fortunate that she is now surrounded by responsible people.

"There are a lot of good family members in the picture for the little girl, that's our main focus," said Zadock.

The area's Child and Youth Services are investigating this case right now. Meanwhile Guido faces charges that include endangering the welfare of a child.